The Easiest Homemade Bread Recipe

There’s something undeniably magical about the aroma of fresh bread wafting through your home. The allure of homemade bread lies not just in its delightful scent but also in the satisfaction that comes from creating something nourishing and comforting with your own hands. Baking bread is an age-old tradition that connects us to our ancestors, reminding us of simpler times when the act of breaking bread together was central to community and family life. In a world where convenience often trumps quality, making bread at home serves as a gentle reminder of the joy derived from crafting food from scratch.

Experience the joy of baking with this easy homemade bread recipe. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you’ll create a delightful loaf that fills your home with a wonderful aroma. Learn about key ingredients like all-purpose flour, instant yeast, and salt, and discover the therapeutic process of kneading and rising dough. Perfect for beginners, this recipe allows you to customize flavors while enjoying the satisfaction of crafting something nourishing from scratch. Share warm slices with loved ones for a truly comforting experience.

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Ingredients

4 cups all-purpose flour

2 teaspoons instant yeast

2 teaspoons salt

1 tablespoon sugar or honey

1.5 cups warm water (110°F/43°C)

2 tablespoons olive oil (optional, for flavor and moisture)

Instructions

Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, instant yeast, salt, and sugar. Stir until well mixed.

Add Wet Ingredients: Pour warm water into the dry mixture. If using, add olive oil. Stir with a wooden spoon or mix with your hands until a shaggy dough forms.

Knead the Dough: Lightly flour your work surface and turn the dough out onto the floured area. Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. (Alternatively, you can use a stand mixer with a dough hook for around 5 minutes.)

First Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a damp kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Shape the Dough: Once risen, punch down the dough to release air bubbles. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and shape it into a loaf or divide it into rolls.

Second Rise: Place the shaped dough into a greased loaf pan or on a baking sheet for rolls. Cover again and let rise for another 30-45 minutes until puffed.

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while the dough is rising.

Bake: Once risen, place the bread in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown. The bread should sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Cool and Enjoy: Remove from the oven, let cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before slicing. Enjoy your homemade bread fresh or toasted!

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 3 hours (including rising) | Servings: 1 loaf (about 12 slices)